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Naturalization

The process by which immigrants can become U.S. citizens after meeting residency and other requirements.

Sections

1. Overview of Naturalization

Naturalization is the process by which lawful permanent residents (green card holders) can apply to become U.S. citizens. It involves meeting specific eligibility criteria, completing an application, passing tests, and taking the Oath of Allegiance.

2. Eligibility Requirements

To apply for naturalization, you must meet the following general requirements:

A. Age

  • You must be at least 18 years old at the time of filing Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization).

B. Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) Status

  • You must have been a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen and living in marital union).
  • During this time, you must have maintained continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S.

C. Continuous Residence

  • You must have continuously resided in the U.S. for at least 5 years (or 3 years for spouses of U.S. citizens).
  • Continuous residence means you have not left the U.S. for extended periods (generally, trips of 6 months or more may disrupt continuous residence).

D. Physical Presence

  • You must have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months out of the last 5 years (or 18 months out of the last 3 years for spouses of U.S. citizens).

E. Good Moral Character

  • You must demonstrate good moral character during the statutory period (5 or 3 years). Certain criminal offenses, such as fraud, drug trafficking, or aggravated felonies, may disqualify you.

F. English and Civics Knowledge

  • You must demonstrate the ability to read, write, and speak basic English.
  • You must pass a civics test covering U.S. history and government.

G. Attachment to the Constitution

  • You must show an attachment to the principles of the U.S. Constitution and be willing to take the Oath of Allegiance.

3. Steps in the Naturalization Process

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

  • Review the eligibility requirements listed above to ensure you qualify for naturalization.

Step 2: Prepare Form N-400

  • Complete Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. You can file online or by mail.
  • Gather required documents, such as:
    • Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
    • Evidence of marital status (if applicable)
    • Evidence of military service (if applicable)
    • Travel records (if applicable)

Step 3: Pay the Application Fee

  • The standard filing fee for Form N-400 is $640, plus an additional $85 biometric services fee, for a total of $725.
    • Fee waivers or reductions may be available for applicants with financial hardship. Use Form I-912 to request a fee waiver.

Step 4: Attend Biometrics Appointment

  • After submitting your application, you will receive a notice to attend a biometrics appointment at a local USCIS Application Support Center.
  • At the appointment, USCIS will collect your fingerprints, photograph, and signature for background checks.

Step 5: Complete the Naturalization Interview

  • USCIS will schedule an interview where an officer will review your application and ask questions about your background.
  • You will also take the English and civics tests during this interview unless you qualify for an exemption (see below).

Step 6: Receive a Decision

  • After the interview, USCIS will issue one of the following decisions:
    • Granted: Your application is approved.
    • Continued: USCIS needs additional information or documentation.
    • Denied: Your application is denied (you may appeal or reapply).

Step 7: Take the Oath of Allegiance

  • If approved, you will receive a notice to attend a naturalization ceremony.
  • At the ceremony, you will take the Oath of Allegiance, officially becoming a U.S. citizen.
  • You will receive your Certificate of Naturalization at the ceremony.

4. English and Civics Test

The naturalization test consists of two parts:

A. English Test

  • Reading: Read one out of three sentences correctly.
  • Writing: Write one out of three sentences correctly.
  • Speaking: Your ability to speak English will be assessed during the interview.

B. Civics Test

  • You will be asked up to 10 questions from a list of 100 possible questions about U.S. history and government.
  • You must answer at least 6 questions correctly to pass.

Exemptions and Accommodations

  • Applicants aged 50 or older with at least 20 years as a green card holder (50/20 rule) or aged 55 or older with at least 15 years as a green card holder (55/15 rule) may be exempt from the English test but must still take the civics test in their native language.
  • Applicants with certain disabilities may qualify for exemptions or accommodations by submitting Form N-648 (Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions).

5. Processing Times

  • The naturalization process typically takes 12-18 months from the time you file Form N-400 to the Oath of Allegiance ceremony.
  • Processing times vary depending on your location and the USCIS workload.

6. Benefits of U.S. Citizenship

  • The right to vote in federal, state, and local elections.
  • Eligibility for federal jobs and elected office.
  • Ability to sponsor family members for immigration.
  • Protection from deportation.
  • U.S. passport for international travel.
  • Access to certain government benefits and scholarships.

7. Important Considerations

A. Dual Citizenship

  • The U.S. allows dual citizenship, but some countries may require you to renounce your original citizenship. Check with your home country’s laws.

B. Travel During the Process

  • Avoid extended travel outside the U.S. while your application is pending, as it may affect your continuous residence requirement.

C. Criminal History

  • Certain criminal offenses may disqualify you from naturalization. Consult an immigration attorney if you have concerns about your record.

D. Legal Assistance

  • While you can complete the process on your own, consulting an immigration attorney or accredited representative can help ensure your application is accurate and complete.

8. Resources

By following these steps and understanding the requirements, you can successfully navigate the naturalization process and become a U.S. citizen. If you have specific questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!